In a significant move aimed at enhancing forensic capabilities, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on April 14, 2025, that the Ministry is drafting an agreement to allow select samples received by government-run forensic science laboratories (FSLs) to be analyzed by private labs as well. This initiative is expected to improve the efficiency and accuracy of forensic investigations across India.
On the same day, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s 135th birth anniversary was commemorated at Prerna Sthal on the Parliament House Lawns, where officials and citizens gathered to honor the legacy of the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. The event highlighted Ambedkar's contributions to social justice and equality in India.
In a legal challenge, actor-turned-politician Vijay, president of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, has approached the Supreme Court questioning the constitutional validity of the Waqf Act. This move underscores ongoing debates regarding religious and property rights in India.
The Congress party criticized the government on April 13, 2025, for raising excise duties on petrol and diesel, claiming it burdens the public. They called for an audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) to assess how government policies have benefited private firms amidst rising fuel prices.
In international news, the inaugural Africa India Key Engagement (AIKEYME) maritime exercise commenced on April 13, 2025, in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. This large-scale multilateral exercise aims to enhance maritime cooperation, with the offshore patrol vessel INS Sunayna arriving at the port carrying 44 naval personnel from nine partner nations.
Meanwhile, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced the successful testing of its Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system, capable of neutralizing drones and missiles. This technological advancement places India among a select group of nations equipped with high-power laser-based defense systems.
In a significant development for Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a series of development projects worth Rs 10,000 crore on April 14, 2025, to mark Ambedkar’s birth anniversary. This includes the launching of a commercial flight service between Hisar and Ayodhya, as well as the foundation stone for a new terminal building at Hisar airport.
On the regulatory front, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has upgraded its online registration system for medical devices, requiring manufacturers to resubmit market standing certificates and non-conviction certificates. This move aims to streamline the regulatory process and improve the ease of doing business in India.
In a poignant reminder of social justice, Union Social Justice Minister Virendra Kumar remarked on April 14, 2025, that Ambedkar should be remembered as a staunch nationalist during the celebrations of his 134th birth anniversary in New Delhi. Kumar emphasized Ambedkar’s commitment to uplift India's marginalized communities.
Turning to international affairs, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged for greater cooperation with Vietnam amid escalating trade tensions with the U.S. This call for collaboration reflects the shifting dynamics in global trade relationships.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy extended an invitation to former U.S. President Donald Trump to visit Ukraine, hoping to provide him with a firsthand view of the destruction caused by Russia’s invasion. This invitation underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
In cultural news, the literary world mourned the loss of Nobel Prize-winning author Mario Vargas Llosa, who passed away at the age of 89 on April 13, 2025, in Lima, Peru. His contributions to literature and thought have left an indelible mark on global culture.
In Ecuador, President Daniel Noboa was re-elected on April 13, 2025, amidst allegations of electoral fraud from his challenger, who has called for a recount. This political turmoil highlights the ongoing challenges in Ecuador’s electoral processes.
On the domestic front, Tamil Nadu is set to begin its annual 61-day fishing ban on April 15, 2025, affecting 809 mechanized boats along its coasts until mid-June. This ban is crucial for the sustainability of marine life in the region.
In a personal gesture, Anna Konidela, wife of Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, fulfilled a vow by offering her hair at the Tirumala temple on April 13, 2025, as a thank you for her son’s recovery from burn injuries sustained in a recent school fire in Singapore.
Kerala has made history by becoming the first state in India to achieve total digital literacy, demonstrating significant progress in education and technology access. This achievement reflects the state’s commitment to empowering its citizens through education.
In a landmark decision, the Telangana government has officially implemented the Telangana Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservations) Act, 2025, categorizing Scheduled Castes into three groups. This move follows a Supreme Court verdict and is expected to impact reservation policies significantly.
Researchers from the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE) made headlines by rediscovering a long-lost species of velvet worm after 111 years, shedding light on the biodiversity of ancient organisms.
On the sports front, the Lucknow Super Giants scored 166 runs for seven against the Chennai Super Kings in an Indian Premier League match on April 14, 2025. This match continues to excite cricket fans across the nation.
India also celebrated success at the Archery World Cup Stage 1, where emerging talent Dhiraj Bommadevara secured a bronze medal in the individual recurve category and the men’s team won silver. This achievement highlights India’s growing prowess in archery.
In football, Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s head coach Jose Molina credited the team’s success to hard work and quality after they clinched the historic Indian Super League double, marking a dominant season in the league’s history.
In hockey, Punjab defeated Haryana 3-2 in the quarterfinals of the 15th men’s hockey national championships Division A, knocking out the two-time finalists.
In tennis, Carlos Alcaraz triumphed over an injured Lorenzo Musetti to win the Monte Carlo final on April 13, 2025, securing his sixth Masters 1000 career title.
In a fascinating development, residents of Bengaluru are increasingly opting for automated devices for daily chores, signaling a shift in household management practices.
Finally, India’s fugitive diamond businessman Mehul Choksi was arrested in Belgium and is now facing extradition to India for his alleged involvement in the Rs 12,636 crore Punjab National Bank scam, marking a significant step in the long-running case.
As the world continues to evolve, these events reflect the dynamic nature of society, politics, and culture, reminding us of the interconnectedness of global and local issues.
